The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has flagged a “concerning trend” of non-insurance amongst travellers following a new survey, which found more Australians were travelling without adequate protections. 

Quantum Market Research, which surveyed 1000 respondents on behalf of the ICA and Smartraveller, reported increasing numbers are choosing to travel without insurance, with about 16% saying they had no cover for their most recent journey.  

Lax attitudes towards insurance are prevalent among younger respondents, with about 60% of those aged under 30 saying they would consider overseas travel without insurance in the future.  

The survey highlights rising travel costs as a notable factor for the absence of insurance, with 15% of respondents reporting that they went without cover because they could not afford it and a further 34% of travellers saying they would consider future uninsured trips to help save on costs.  

“These findings are concerning, as they suggest that a significant number of Australians are putting themselves at risk by traveling without considering potential health and safety risks or purchasing travel insurance,” ICA CEO Andrew Hall said.  

“Things we take for granted in Australia, such as the public health system, are not free or even available to you once you leave the country.”  

Mr Hall also notes worrying findings that only 19% of respondents admitted to reading every detail of their policy’s product disclosure statement before travelling.  

“Personal responsibility plays a big part in your travel plans and it’s important to read the details of your policy, so you know you are covered,” Mr Hall said.  

“As we head into the holiday season, we urge all Australians to make sure they are properly insured before traveling overseas and to be aware of the risks they are taking.”